Flutter or Native? How to Choose the Right MVP Stack

Choosing the wrong tech stack can waste time and hurt your MVP. Your tech stack is a key part of your strategy. At Volpis, we’ve helped over 100 founders avoid these issues.

Whether you plan to work with Kotlin developer to create an Android app, bring a Swift developer on board for an iOS version or hire Flutter developer to build both from one codebase, our team would be happy to answer all your questions. You can always connect with us via info@volpis.com

Consistently recognized as one of the top software development companies on Clutch, the Volpis team has spent years providing custom app development services with Kotlin, Swift and  Flutter to businesses worldwide. In this article, we’ll explain how to choose the right tech stack.

What You’re Really Deciding

Founders don’t ask just ‘Kotlin or Swift?’ — they ask: ‘Do I need iOS first? Can I build both? Should I use Flutter to move quickly?’ That’s the key decision.

Choosing Swift, Kotlin, or Flutter is about more than just programming languages; it’s about your platform strategy.

• Kotlin is for Android apps.
• Swift is for iOS apps.
• Flutter lets you build for both with one codebase.

Start by considering your product goals:

• Do you need to launch quickly?
• Are your users mainly on one platform?
• Are there technical constraints (e.g. real-time tracking or hardware integration)?

When It Makes Sense to Go Native

Sometimes, it’s better to build separate apps for iOS (Swift) and Android (Kotlin).

Go native if:

• Your app requires top performance.
• You’re developing complex features (e.g., real-time location tracking, AR).
• You’re investing in a long-term product with deep platform integration.
• Your user base is mostly on one platform (e.g., iOS-heavy markets).

The downside: more time, higher costs, and added complexity. You’ll need two teams, and managing both apps will take extra effort.

Need an iOS developer? Hire a Swift Developer.

Focusing on Android? Hire a Kotlin Developer.

When Flutter Is the Smart Move

If speed, flexibility, and cost are priorities — Flutter is often the best option for MVPs.

Why choose Flutter?

• One codebase for both iOS and Android.
• Quicker time to launch.
• Lower development costs.
• Consistent, high-quality UI on all platforms.

While it’s not the best for complex native integrations, Flutter works well for 80–90% of startup apps.

Consider Flutter if:

• You need to test an idea fast.
• You’re seeking investment and need a strong demo.
• You’re building a SaaS or marketplace product.
• You want consistent design across all platforms.

Need a quick, reliable MVP team? Hire a Flutter Developer.

Native or Flutter? Side-by-Side

When making your decision, consider these factors:

• Platform Priority: Are your users mainly on iOS, Android, or both?
• Speed vs Perfection: Do you need to launch quickly, or focus on building in-depth features?
• Tech Constraints: Does your MVP require native features (e.g., Bluetooth, AR)?
• Budget & Resources: Can you afford to have two native teams?
• Long-Term Roadmap: Is this MVP temporary, or part of your core product?

Often, the best approach is to launch with Flutter, test your idea, and then go native if needed.

What We Recommend at Volpis

We’ve built MVPs for fleet startups, SaaS applications, and real-time solutions. In most cases, 90% to be exact, Flutter was the ideal first choice. When native technology was needed — for precise GPS, hardware integration, or offline features — the decision was clear.

Before we start coding, we assist clients in:

• Clarifying their product goals.
• Evaluating their technical requirements.
• Advising on the best tech stack.

This approach is why our MVPs not only launch but thrive and scale.

Final Thought: Stack ≠ Code. Stack = Strategy.

Your choice of tech stack is a strategic business decision. It influences your time to market, ability to pivot, and scaling costs. Don’t follow trends — pick the stack that best suits your product, audience, and future goals.

If you need help making this decision, we are always here to give honest advice. You can reach out to the Volpis team via info@volpis.com with any questions.